Birmingham City Council’s Independent Travel Training celebrates a post‑16 student with BSL needs who now travels independently using two types of public transport—boosting confidence and freedom.
The trainee, from Birmingham and has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), has been working one‑to‑one with a specialist ITT Travel Trainer to build the skills and confidence needed to travel safely and independently across the city. The programme supports young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities by teaching essential life skills such as using buses, trains and trams, personal safety, road awareness, and problem‑solving.
To meet the trainee’s communication needs, the ITT team introduced a range of adaptations, including bespoke visual aids and access to a qualified BSL communicator. Their commitment has also prompted staff to begin BSL training at a local SEND school—strengthening relationships with educational partners and improving support for future trainees.
The trainee’s mum praised the programme: “The Independent Travel Trainer has been wonderful. She [the trainer] showed such understanding and patience in building trust with my son. The progress he’s made has been incredible, and it’s opened up a level of independence we didn’t think possible. I’ve already recommended the programme to other parents—it’s so important to think about the bigger picture and what this means for our children’s future.”
Strengthening independence and opportunities
Independent Travel Training supports young people aged 11–25 who meet eligibility criteria for Council travel assistance. For many families, ITT provides life‑changing opportunities—supporting young people to gain independence, confidence, and long‑term mobility skills that open up work, education, and social opportunities.
Councillor Mick Brown, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, said:
“This success story is exactly what Independent Travel Training is all about—empowering young people to gain confidence, independence and real control over their lives. I’m incredibly proud of the dedication shown by our ITT team and of the resilience and achievement of this young person. Programmes like this not only support families today but also open doors to future opportunities.”
About Independent Travel Training
The ITT programme provides one‑to‑one, tailored support that helps young people learn the safest route between home, school, college or other destinations. Training usually takes place daily during real travel times, and trainees are only signed off when the young person, family and trainers all agree they are fully confident.
A former trainee recently shared their experience:
“I was really scared to catch the bus, but I can now get to school on my own and meet my friends in town. I’m really glad I did it.”
ITT accepts referrals from parents, schools, social workers, Council colleagues, and young people themselves. Training is free to those who meet the criteria.
How to Apply
Young people aged 11–25 who live in Birmingham and are eligible for travel assistance can apply online for Independent Travel Training:
Email: BCCITT@birmingham.gov.uk
Online: Apply here.
About the Children and Young People’s Travel Service
The Children and Young People’s Travel Service provides support for eligible students across the city, including travel passes and specialist transport assistance.
Telephone: 0121 303 4955
Email: travelassist@birmingham.gov.uk
